Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat)
Synopsis
Driven by a quest to capture a landscape reduced to flatness and sky, Viola travels to Chott El-Djerid. The film opens with images of snowy prairies and winter scenes, mirrored by warm, vibrating desert vistas. Through powerful telephoto lenses, shimmering mirages and warped forms emerge under extreme heat and light. These visuals evoke a space where dream and waking reality merge. Viola’s journey transcends documentation, transforming viewing into a reflective exploration of the limits of perception.
Release History & Theatrical Window
January 1, 1979
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Bill Viola
- Original Title
- Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat)
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- No Language
- Runtime
- 28m
- Production Studios
- Thirteen, New York State Council on the Arts, National Endowment for the Arts
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Bill Viola
John. J. Godfrey
Department Leadership Roster
Bill Viola
Director
John. J. Godfrey
Editor
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat).
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat)
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat) about?
Driven by a quest to capture a landscape reduced to flatness and sky, Viola travels to Chott El-Djerid. The film opens with images of snowy prairies and winter scenes, mirrored by warm, vibrating desert vistas. Through powerful telephoto lenses, shimmering mirages and warped forms emerge under extreme heat and light. These visuals evoke a space where dream and waking reality merge. Viola’s journey transcends documentation, transforming viewing into a reflective exploration of the limits of perception.
Who directed Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat)?
Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat) was directed by Bill Viola.
Who stars in Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat)?
The principal cast of Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat) includes Not specified.
When was Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat) released and how long is it?
Chott el-Djerid (A Portrait in Light and Heat) was released in 1979 with a total runtime of 28m.